What Materials To Consider For Decking?

If you have a home with a backyard, then decking can be the best addition to it. It can steeply transform your yard into a more usable space for relaxing, dining, and entertaining. It extends your living space and significantly adds value to your home garden making it more inviting than before. However, you need to ensure that you are choosing the right material for decking by taking into account the climatic conditions of the area where you live in. Composite decking with wooden materials last long and they give much aesthetic appeal to your home.

Australia has different climatic areas; some areas have temperate climates while others witness wet tropical climates. It is therefore essential to factor in local climatic conditions to choose appropriate decking material. There is a variety of decking material available on market; some are good for outdoor usage while others are not. Generally, hardwood decks last long and they give you the best value for money. Hence pine and cedar are quite popular when it comes to decking for a longer and sustainable return. 

Let Us Have A More Detailed Look Into Different Types Of Decking Material Available To Choose From. 

Decking

• Teak – It is one of the best performing hardwood materials for decking that goes very well in the Australian climate, but it is the most expensive timber. When teak is cut, it releases a viscous fluid known as sap that protects the wood from insects and fungus. As teak is very durable and tough and holds on screws and nails very tightly, rest assured your deck is going to be strong and sturdy that will last for years to come. It has a beautiful pale color that goes very well with mild staining and oiling.

• Spotted Gum – It is one of the most commonly used hardwoods in Australia for decking. This type of wood grows plantation-style, so it is a good choice for those who are looking for an environmentally friendly option. It comes in beautiful grain structure, color tones, and attractive markings that make it extremely loved by designers and architects. It is tough and dense, so it is best if you live in areas that are prone to bush fires. Also, it is able to perform quite well in the unpredictable climate of Australia. 

• Grey Ironbark – It has got its name from its silvery grey color. This is also high-density timber just like spotted gum, thus it is heavy and durable; though sometimes its heaviness makes it difficult to work with. It is brittle and tends to warp and split; However, it is highly resistant to fire, termite and rots and this makes it a great option for decking. This is one of the finest decking ideas that you can implement for your garden. 

Decking

• Blackbutt – This is another hardwood option for decking. Because of its fire-resistant properties, this straight grain and even textured wood are best to use in fire zone areas. It comes in a range of colors from yellowish-brown to light brown, and you can use timber oil with a silver tint to maintain its beautiful natural color. It grows quickly in the form of plantations, so it doesn’t contribute to deforestation.

• Jarrah – This is also a very dense, hard, and durable type of hardwood making it a good fit for decking. It grows very slowly as compared to Blackbutt; therefore, it is available in limited quantities and is very expensive also. It is naturally resistant to weather, rot, and termites making it a good option for your deck. Its deep red color beautifully differentiates it from other types of wood. This is a high-quality wood and it prevents mold growth and staining. 

Make sure to consult your builder or contractor before making the final purchase.